Something Sweet, Something Dulcé!

the Review By. the Lord Kempson Ari de Visé

T

he hallmark of a great restaurant is in the attention to detail and the symphony of flavors the food creates in your mouth. The service should be seamless and the experience a pleasantly lingering one. Such an establishment exits in the labyrinth that is Lusaka, an absolute treat for the taste buds and a memorable culinary experience. With something gastronomic for everyone, let us partake in a serving of something dulcé.    

The chef at any restaurant is the soul of the enterprise with their character reflected in the food, the environment and energy as well as the conduct of the staff. Such is the elegance the Director/Head chef Jessie Chipindo permeates into her restaurant Dulcé & Banana. Her warmth is notable and is visible in the sophisticated spectacle that is served. The menu indeed reflects the name and wit that was inspired by Lorraine Pascal’s desert (Dulcé and Banana) and does it a proud ode. The business is fully Zambian owned and run, and employees local staff (whom the chef has personally trained). The restaurant offers both traditional Zambian food as well as international cuisine, in fresh and serene environment.  Everything on offer is unique and to die for and is as sweet as the name Dulcé (Italian for sweet) suggests.  

If the espresso is creamy, chances are very high that the experience will be great too. On not one but two occasions, I could found no fault with chef, meal or service, (a sentiment backed by my accomplice). The amazing wings (served with a side of fries), compelled me to show up for brunch on a Monday. The ribs where so juicy and tender, the flesh pealed right off the bone. The accompanying mash was mind blowing, the texture was creamy and the intricate components of sun-dried tomatoes and coriander transcended the mashed potatoes. I also took the liberty of sampling the Creamy Prawn and Mushroom Pasta from my partner in crime’s late (served on trendy crockery), the dish was creamy, well seasoned, the pasta made from scratch and each component of the dish could be tasted (none overpowering the other). The Death by Chocolate cake had me o the ropes as my belly ached from the satisfaction of a great feast. The ingredient were fresh, of the highest quality and organic, portions are generous and hearty, the prices very fair, a treat worth every penny.

And so as it is and has always been and shall always be food and fashion go hand in hand. Being served by a smiling and vivacious urbane chef with a great fashion sense (Tom Ford cat’s eyes, an animal print Guess watch and cute ankle boots) is that extra savoir faire that ties the whole affair together. Did I mention she also makes the cocktails such as a refreshing mojito? Dulcé & Banana transcends food; it is a way of life. It’s a lifestyle of which I approve, an establishment where I can and want to spend my summer by the pool side (yes you can it by the pool), spring by the terrace and winter on the patio, a well deserved 5ive forks tip indeed. Call +260975913558 and make that reservation now.

Located on Alick Nkhata Road (at the Swedish School next to Pope Square) in Lusaka, and  open from 8am, Monday to Saturday treat yourself to breakfast, lunch and dinner, bring along a friend, associate or significant other and make it a dulcé selfie moment.